An appreciation barbeque was held for first responders at Brush Meat Processing Wednesday afternoon.

The idea was born after Operations Manager Ace Ward experienced the injury of a close friend who was shot in the line of duty. Ward decided it was time to give back and appreciate those who walk the thin blue line everyday.

“They are all out there putting their lives on the line for us everyday. We needed to do something to show them how much we appreciate all they do for us,” said Ward.

The company approached retired law enforcement officer Chuck Marting, who is also a competitive barbecue pitmaster. Marting immediately agreed to do the cooking, which involved the smoking of 108 buffalo burgers.

“I worked in law enforcement for 20 years, it was a no-brainer to agree to do the cooking. I’ll show support to the men and women in blue any day,” said Marting.

Brush Meat Processing Campus Office Manager Claudia Campos set to work planning the event, reaching out to first responders and compiling donations of food and time by volunteers. Brush Grocery Cart donated pasta and potato salads and a cake adorned with the logos of police, fire and emergency medical services. The 108 buffalo burgers were eagerly donated by Brush Meat Processing Founder and Chief Operating Officer Bob Dineen.

“These people don’t get nearly enough pats on the back for all they do. They get plenty of rocks thrown at them. It’s time we showed them how appreciated they are,” said Dineen.

Among those in attendance were Brush Mayor Rick Bain and Brush Chief of Police Travis Anderson. Also present were medics from Morgan County Ambulance, Brush Fire Department and Brush Police Department.